IPL Auction 2025: Gujarat Titans Acquire Kagiso Rabada For ₹10.75 Crore Amid Intense Bidding War
During the IPL 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was acquired by Gujarat Titans (GT) for an impressive ₹10.75 crore. This electrifying bidding war highlighted Rabada's immense value as a top-tier bowler.
The auction began with a base price of ₹2 crore for Rabada. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) initiated the bidding, soon joined by Gujarat Titans. The competition intensified as Mumbai Indians (MI) entered, pushing the bid to ₹5.25 crore.

Rabada, who has played for MI in their global franchises, became the center of attention as MI aggressively pursued him, raising their bid to ₹8.25 crore. Just when it seemed MI might succeed, RCB reignited the contest by increasing their offer to ₹8.50 crore.
A thrilling exchange followed between GT and RCB, with MI eventually stepping back. RCB finally withdrew at ₹10.50 crore, allowing Gujarat Titans to secure Rabada at ₹10.75 crore.
Punjab Kings (PBKS), Rabada's previous team, chose not to use their Right to Match (RTM) card, enabling him to join GT freely. This strategic acquisition significantly strengthens Gujarat Titans' bowling lineup as they aim for another championship title.
Rabada is renowned for his exceptional pace and skillful variations in T20 cricket. In 80 IPL matches, he has taken 117 wickets with an average of 21.96 and a strike rate of 15.5. His standout season was in 2020 when he claimed the Purple Cap with 30 wickets.
Kagiso Rabada's IPL Journey
| Year | Team | Price (INR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Delhi Daredevils | ₹5 crore | First IPL contract at age 21; made an instant impact with his pace. |
| 2018 | Delhi Daredevils | - | Missed the season due to injury but retained by the franchise. |
| 2019 | Delhi Capitals | ₹4.2 crore | Retained; claimed 25 wickets in 12 matches, emerging as a top performer. |
| 2020 | Delhi Capitals | ₹4.2 crore | Retained; won the Purple Cap with 30 wickets in 17 matches. |
| 2021 | Delhi Capitals | ₹4.2 crore | Retained; continued to lead the team's bowling attack effectively. |
| 2022 | Punjab Kings | ₹9.25 crore | Bought in the mega auction; secured 23 wickets in his debut PBKS season. |
| 2023 | Punjab Kings | ₹9.25 crore | Retained; played only six matches, taking 11 wickets. |
| 2024 | Punjab Kings | ₹9.25 crore | Retained; took 11 wickets in 13 matches. |
| 2025 | Gujarat Titans | ₹10.75 crore | Acquired in the mega auction after a bidding war with RCB and MI. |
This signing demonstrates Gujarat Titans' determination to achieve IPL glory in 2025. Fans eagerly anticipate witnessing Rabada's powerful deliveries in the team's colors during the upcoming season.